Is driving with the windows open harmful to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows while driving? Let’s take a fresh look at these issues.
Envision this: It is a peaceful morning, with the clock reading 7:45 AM. With the highway almost deserted, you travel along at a comfortable 55 MPH, enjoying the cool breeze through your open windows. On such a picturesque day, using the car’s air conditioner seems excessive, doesn’t it? After all, why waste precious gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down pose risks to your hearing?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s very loud. Researchers in the UK carried out experiments with various vehicles, from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during non-peak hours at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 MPH.
The researchers’ results were uniform: regardless of the type of vehicle or its speed, driving with the windows open subjected the driver to a nearly continuous sound level of at least 89 decibels.
Could this volume of noise present a danger of triggering lasting damage to one’s hearing?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely cause permanent damage to one’s hearing.
Prolonged exposure to very loud noises, like those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can cause hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors create a rise in noise levels when windows are open?
Numerous elements can increase the noise levels even while your vehicle might already seem loud.
A guide to engines and automobile styles
The majority of gasoline-powered engines produce noise as a result of the swift combustion process occurring inside of their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of automobiles that use gasoline. A somewhat quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can generate more than 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, adding substantially to the overall ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. Studies have revealed that bicyclists face about 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, rising to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows down can have a noticeable impact on your hearing, especially since cars encounter increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Every passing vehicle, even on multi-lane highways, adds to noise amplification. In addition to the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air created by other vehicles passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
Tips for minimizing risks and ensuring safe driving
If you like driving with windows open, consider these steps to decrease hearing loss threats:
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, varying between windows open and closed.
- One way for drivers of convertibles to decrease noise exposure is to put up the windows while leaving the roof open.
- Utilize cell phone apps to monitor noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows closed in heavy traffic to avoid extended exposure to loud noises surpassing 100 decibels.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets developed to reduce traffic noise.
- Regularly monitor your hearing health, especially if you’ve been repeatedly driving with windows open.
In summary, driving with windows open subjects you to numerous sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
Taking steps to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows open.
If you are worried about hearing loss caused by noise, please contact us today.